Updated

New England Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski will endure a fourth surgery to repair a broken left forearm.

The Herald quoted sources on Friday, which said the procedure was likely to be performed some time next week, but a date has not been finalized.

Gronkowski has been battling an infection due to multiple surgeries performed to correct a fracture which was originally suffered back in mid-November.

According to the paper, the upcoming procedure will be necessary to determine if the infection has cleared. If so, then a new plate will be inserted on the broken bone and a new recovery timetable will be set for his return to action. If not, then Gronkowski is in danger of missing the start of the 2013 season.

The 24-year-old Arizona product finished the 2012 campaign with 55 receptions for 790 yards and 11 touchdowns in just 11 games.